There’s an old idiom that states, “Take care of your feet because your feet take you everywhere,” or maybe this one, “Take care of your feet because they will carry you for life.” Either way, proper foot care is vital for our overall health and welfare. In conjunction with our “How I Walk” project, let’s take a look at some of the biggest threats to our largest limbs and ways to prevent them from occurring:

#1 – ATHLETE’S FOOT

This common condition may get its name from the virus being spread in locker rooms and other moist areas where bare feet are found or the fact that athletes often obtain it from wearing shoes for extended periods of time. This fungus causes peeling, redness, itching, a burning sensation and sometimes leads to painful blisters and sores. Wear breathable shoes whenever possible and be sure to give your feet a break if you are stuck in your shoes for long periods. When walking through locker rooms, saunas, poolside and other moist environments, be sure to wear sandals or other protective foot gear.

#2 – CORNS & CALLUSES

Friction and pressure are believed to cause these common and painful foot conditions. Whether It’s important to keep your feet properly moisturized to help prevent friction, but not so moist that you could develop other conditions like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Proper fitting footwear is also recommended as a way to ward off these painful protrusions. If you’ve already contracted a corn, the application of moleskin pads can help relieve pain and pressure, while calluses can be trimmed or removed by a surgeon or podiatrist. There are also some other types of pads available for calluses that will help with pain and prevent spreading.

#3 – DIABETES

Although the exact cause of this debilitating disease isn’t truly understood, experts agree that genetics, diet and lifestyle choices are likely factors that contribute to contracting diabetes. Dietary choices play an important role in both those who have been diagnosed with this disease or at a higher risk for getting diabetes. This is just another reason to get plenty of healthy food into our bodies, whole grains, fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables. Over the course of time, diabetes can lead to stinging nerve pain in the feet and in some rare cases, amputation of the lower extremity, feet or toes. It can also lead to complications for those with heart disease and stroke and can lead to blindness or kidney failure.

#4 – TOENAIL FUNGUS

Similar to contracting athlete’s foot, this fungus can be spread through casual contact and will enter through a tiny crack in the skin near your toes. People who perspire heavily, swim frequently or are also in warm, moist areas more often seem to be at a greater risk of getting toenail fungus. This fungal infection won’t go away on its own. In minor cases, creams and other topical solutions can be successful, but a severe infection could require prescription drugs or even surgery to repair the damage.

In all cases, be sure to keep your feet protected from getting infected whenever and wherever possible.